
If you’re tired of tap water that smells like a swimming pool or tastes a bit “off,” a faucet-mounted filter can be one of the simplest upgrades you make to your kitchen. In this in-depth review, we dig into the Waterdrop Water Filter for Sink Faucet — an NSF-certified, 320-gallon filter that promises better-tasting water in seconds, easy installation, and a budget-friendly way to cut down on single-use plastic bottles.
Quick link if you want to check today’s price or specs:
- Check the Waterdrop Water Filter for Sink Faucet on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GABXWCK?ref=t_ac_view_request_product_image&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z&linkCode=tr1&tag=lamp0ad-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z_1756324895823
Overview: What This Faucet Filter Is (and Isn’t)
At a glance:
- Type: Faucet-mount water filter for standard kitchen faucets
- Filtration: Certified to NSF/ANSI 42 (reduces chlorine taste and odor) and NSF/ANSI 372 (lead-free materials)
- Not a TDS-reducing filter: If you want lower TDS, you’ll need a reverse osmosis system (Waterdrop offers RO systems)
- Capacity: Up to 320 gallons per filter (about 3 months of typical use)
- Flow rate: Fast; fills roughly 4 x 16.9 oz bottles in 1 minute (about 0.53 gallons per minute)
- Material: Lead-free construction; uses advanced ACF (Activated Carbon Fiber)
- Operation: Simple lever switches between filtered and unfiltered tap water
- Compatibility: Designed for standard faucets; does not fit pull-out, hand-held, spray-style, or sensor faucets
- Ease of install: No plumber required; includes multiple adapters and leak-proof design
The Waterdrop faucet system focuses on what most people want from everyday drinking water: better taste and fewer unpleasant odors, specifically from chlorine. It’s a compact, lightweight unit that screws onto your faucet with common adapters, and it includes a useful toggle so you can save the filter for drinking/cooking and switch back to unfiltered water for washing dishes.
Important compatibility note:
- Not compatible with pull-out, hand-held, spray-style, or sensor faucets. If you’re unsure, snap a photo of your faucet and compare it to the diagrams on the Amazon product page, or contact Waterdrop support to confirm the fit before making a purchase.
- The manufacturer’s note: this filter does not reduce TDS. TDS reduction typically requires RO (reverse osmosis). For most households seeking to enhance taste and odor, TDS reduction is not typically necessary.
Want to see the latest details, specs, and reviews?
- See the Waterdrop Water Filter for Sink Faucet on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GABXWCK?ref=t_ac_view_request_product_image&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z&linkCode=tr1&tag=lamp0ad-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z_1756324895823
Why the Waterdrop Faucet Filter Stands Out
- NSF/ANSI 42 Certification (Chlorine Taste & Odor)
- Independent testing and certification under NSF/ANSI 42 indicate the filter is proven to reduce chlorine taste and odor. This is the main reason many people buy faucet filters — the improvement in everyday taste is often noticeable.
- If your tap water smells like a pool, this is the certification that matters most for everyday flavor.
- NSF/ANSI 372 (Lead-Free Materials)
- The product is certified for lead-free construction, which ensures the materials meet the standard for low lead content. That’s about product safety and materials, not necessarily filtering existing lead out of water.
- Waterdrop states the filter was tested by a third-party lab for lead reduction, but this is not the same as being certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead reduction. If lead reduction is a priority in your area, check local water reports and consider systems that carry specific certifications for lead reduction.
- Longer Filter Life (Up to 320 Gallons)
- Rated for up to 320 gallons, or roughly three months in a typical home. That’s about twice as long as many competing faucet filters.
- Real-world life depends on your water quality and how often you use filtered vs. unfiltered mode. The toggle switch is a smart way to extend the life — filter your drinking and cooking water, but switch to unfiltered for rinsing dishes.
- Activated Carbon Fiber (ACF) for Fast Filtration
- ACF media is known for high adsorption speed and efficiency, especially for chlorine and some organic compounds that influence taste and smell.
- The manufacturer notes you can fill four 16.9 oz bottles in one minute — handy when you need water fast.
- Easy Installation, No Tools for Most Faucets
- It includes a range of adapters and gaskets. Most users can install it in minutes.
- The toggle lever for filtered/unfiltered water is straightforward and cuts down waste and cost.
Who This Filter Is Best For
- Renters or anyone who can’t drill/install under-sink systems
- Households that primarily want to improve taste and odor without major plumbing changes
- Busy families who want quick filtered water at the tap without waiting (as with many pitchers)
- Anyone trying to reduce plastic bottle use with a small, inexpensive upgrade
- Budget-minded buyers looking for NSF 42 certification and a long filter life per dollar
Who Should Consider a Different Type of System
- If you specifically need TDS reduction: Look at reverse osmosis (RO). Waterdrop offers RO systems that can reduce TDS.
- If you require certified lead removal: Consider systems certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead reduction.
- If your faucet is a pull-out, hand-held, spray-style, or sensor model: This unit won’t fit.
- If you want whole-home filtration: You’ll need a point-of-entry system instead of a faucet-mounted unit.
Installation and Setup: What to Expect
The Waterdrop faucet filter is designed with DIY installation in mind:
- Check your faucet: Confirm it’s a standard model with removable aerator. If it’s a pull-out or sensor faucet, this model won’t fit.
- Gather included adapters: The box typically includes a set of adapters and gaskets to match common faucet threads (male and female). Choose the one that matches your faucet’s threading.
- Remove the aerator: Unscrew your faucet’s aerator and keep it safe.
- Attach adapter and filter: Screw on the appropriate adapter, then thread the Waterdrop filter onto the adapter. Hand-tight is usually enough.
- Check for leaks: Turn on the water slowly. If you see drips, ensure the gasket sits evenly and tighten gently. The filter features a leak-proof design, but seating the gasket correctly is key.
- Flush the filter: As with most carbon-based filters, run water through the filter for a couple of minutes to clear any fine carbon particles before drinking.
Pro tip: Like many faucet filters, use cold water when filtering to preserve performance and filter lifespan. Switch to unfiltered for hot water tasks like washing or rinsing.
Performance and Taste: Day-to-Day Use
- Taste improvement: The primary change most households notice is a reduction in chlorine taste and odor. Coffee, tea, and cold water typically taste cleaner and fresher.
- Speed: Filtering is fast; you can fill a bottle or kettle quickly.
- Clarity: Chlorine-related odor and flavor are addressed, which is often the biggest culprit in “tap taste.”
- Consistency: As the filter nears the end of its life, you may notice a slower flow or a slight return of tap flavor. That’s your signal to replace the cartridge.
What About TDS?
- TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) is a measure of dissolved minerals and salts. It is not a comprehensive indicator of water safety or taste.
- Waterdrop clearly states this faucet filter does not reduce TDS. If your goal is lower TDS (for example, for certain brewing methods or appliances), consider an RO system.
- For most people, improving taste and smell (chlorine reduction) is the everyday benefit, and this unit is designed specifically for that.
Filter Life and Replacement Costs
- Rated capacity: 320 gallons (about 1,211 liters), or roughly three months for typical usage.
- Real-world estimate: If your household drinks and cooks with about 3.5 gallons of filtered water daily, a 320-gallon capacity equates to around 90 days.
- Availability: Replacement filters are sold individually and in multipacks. Look for part number WD-FF-01A (3-pack often provides better value).
- Budgeting tip: Using the toggle to reserve filtered water for drinking and cooking stretches the cartridge life. For tasks like rinsing produce or washing dishes, switch to unfiltered mode.
Environmental Impact: Bottles You Won’t Buy
- One filter at 320 gallons replaces roughly 2,400 single-use 16.9 oz bottles. That’s a noticeable reduction in plastic waste and trips to the store.
- Faster flow than a pitcher also means fewer excuses to reach for a disposable bottle when you’re rushing out the door.
Build Quality and Design
- Compact and lightweight: Sits directly on your faucet without overwhelming the sink area.
- Lead-free materials: NSF/ANSI 372 certification covers low lead content in the product itself.
- Clean look: Typically white and neutral, it blends into most kitchens.
- Convenient toggle: Simple and reliable, making it easy to switch back and forth without fiddling.
Compatibility: Will It Fit Your Faucet?
- Works with: Standard faucets that have removable aerators and standard threading.
- Does not fit: Pull-out, hand-held, spray-style, or sensor faucets.
- Adapters included: Multiple adapters help cover common thread types.
- If you’re unsure: Compare your faucet to the compatibility images on the Amazon page, or contact Waterdrop with a photo.
To confirm specs or check the compatibility visuals, visit:
- Waterdrop faucet filter product page on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GABXWCK?ref=t_ac_view_request_product_image&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z&linkCode=tr1&tag=lamp0ad-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z_1756324895823
Maintenance Tips for Best Results
- Flush when new: Run water through the filter for a few minutes before first use.
- Cold water only: Use filtered mode with cold water to protect the media.
- Toggle wisely: Use filtered water for drinking/cooking; unfiltered mode for cleaning and other high-flow tasks.
- Replace on time: If you notice flow slowing or taste/odor returning, it’s time for a new cartridge.
- Keep it clean: Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth; avoid harsh cleaners that could damage plastics.
Safety and Certifications: What They Mean
- NSF/ANSI 42: The filter has been tested and certified to reduce chlorine taste and odor. This is the key certification for everyday taste improvement.
- NSF/ANSI 372: The product is certified for lead-free materials (low lead content in the product’s construction).
- Third-party testing for lead reduction: Waterdrop notes independent testing for lead reduction; however, this is different from an NSF/ANSI 53 certification. If lead is a concern, check your municipal water report and consider certified lead-reduction solutions accordingly.
What’s in the Box
- Faucet-mount filter housing
- 1 x filter cartridge
- A set of adapters and gaskets for common faucets
- Quick-start guidance
Speed vs. Completeness: How Faucet Filters Compare
- Faucet filters (like this Waterdrop):
- Big benefit: Immediate, on-tap water that tastes significantly better by reducing chlorine taste/odor.
- Limitations: Not designed for broader contaminant removal or TDS reduction; compatibility depends on your faucet style.
- Pitcher filters:
- Benefit: Universally compatible; refrigerated cold water.
- Limitations: Slower, smaller capacity, frequent refills.
- Under-sink filters:
- Benefit: Hidden install, higher capacity, often more comprehensive filtration.
- Limitations: Requires tools/drilling; more costly and less portable.
- Reverse osmosis systems:
- Benefit: Reduces TDS and a broader spectrum of contaminants; excellent for taste and clarity if TDS is your target.
- Limitations: Higher upfront cost, installation required, wastewater ratio considerations.
Value for Money
- Extended capacity (320 gallons) means fewer replacements over the year, making this a cost-effective way to improve everyday taste.
- The toggle switch helps you “budget” your filtration where it counts most, further improving long-term value.
- For households seeking a quick, budget-friendly solution with real, certified taste/odor improvement, the Waterdrop faucet filter is a strong value pick.
Realistic Expectations
- Do expect: Noticeably better taste and smell where chlorine is the issue, fast dispensing, easy installation, and a solid three months of typical use.
- Don’t expect: TDS reduction, compatibility with pull-out or sensor faucets, or specialized removal of contaminants not covered by its certification.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- NSF/ANSI 42 certification for chlorine taste/odor reduction
- NSF/ANSI 372 lead-free materials
- Long filter life (up to 320 gallons), typically 2x many competitors
- Fast flow: about 0.53 GPM (4 bottles per minute)
- Easy to install with included adapters
- Simple toggle extends filter life and saves money
- Budget-friendly way to improve taste quickly
Cons
- Not compatible with pull-out, spray-style, or sensor faucets
- Does not reduce TDS (by design)
- For verified lead reduction, you would need a different certification (e.g., NSF/ANSI 53)
- As with all faucet filters, flow can decrease as the filter nears the end of life
FAQs
Q: Does this filter reduce TDS?
A: No. The Waterdrop faucet filter is not designed to reduce TDS. If lower TDS is your goal, consider a reverse osmosis system.
Q: Will it remove chlorine taste and odor?
A: Yes. It’s tested and certified to NSF/ANSI 42 for reduction of chlorine taste and odor.
Q: Is the product lead-free?
A: It’s certified to NSF/ANSI 372 for lead-free materials, indicating low lead content in its construction. Waterdrop also cites third-party testing for lead reduction in water, but this is distinct from an NSF/ANSI 53 certification.
Q: How long does the filter last?
A: Up to 320 gallons or about three months of typical use. Heavy use or poor water quality may shorten that.
Q: How fast is it?
A: Waterdrop states it can fill four 16.9 oz bottles in about one minute, roughly 0.53 gallons per minute.
Q: Can I use hot water through the filter?
A: As with most carbon filters, use cold water in filtered mode to maintain performance and longevity.
Q: What are the replacement filters called?
A: Look for WD-FF-01A (available in multi-packs for better value).
Q: Will it fit my faucet?
A: It fits standard faucets but won’t fit pull-out, hand-held, spray-type, or sensor faucets. Check your aerator and compare thread types to the adapter set provided.
When You Should Consider an RO System Instead
- You want measurable TDS reduction for taste or appliance reasons (espresso machines, aquariums, etc.).
- You need broader contaminant reduction beyond chlorine taste/odor.
- You’re okay with a more involved installation and higher upfront cost for more comprehensive filtration.
If TDS reduction is a must, look at Waterdrop’s RO offerings on Amazon. For quick taste improvement at a low cost, though, this faucet filter is tough to beat.
The Bottom Line: A Great Everyday Taste Upgrade
The Waterdrop Water Filter for Sink Faucet hits a sweet spot: fast, affordable, certified to reduce chlorine taste and odor, and easy to install. With a 320-gallon capacity and a handy toggle to extend filter life, it’s a practical choice for households that want better-tasting water right from the tap without going all-in on an under-sink or RO setup.
If your faucet is compatible and your primary concern is chlorine taste and odor, this is a smart, budget-friendly upgrade that can help you drink more water and cut down on bottled water purchases.
Ready to see pricing, compatibility images, and the latest reviews?
- Check price on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GABXWCK?ref=t_ac_view_request_product_image&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z&linkCode=tr1&tag=lamp0ad-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z_1756324895823
- View the Waterdrop Water Filter for Sink Faucet: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GABXWCK?ref=t_ac_view_request_product_image&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z&linkCode=tr1&tag=lamp0ad-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z_1756324895823
- See today’s deals on this faucet-mount filter: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GABXWCK?ref=t_ac_view_request_product_image&campaignId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z&linkCode=tr1&tag=lamp0ad-20&linkId=amzn1.campaign.2Q7LUKEZJON5Z_1756324895823
Key Takeaways
- Best for: Improving everyday taste and smell (chlorine reduction) with minimal cost and effort.
- Not for: TDS reduction, non-standard faucets (pull-out/sensor), or specialized contaminant removal not covered by its certifications.
- Value: Long 320-gallon capacity, fast flow, simple toggle, and easy installation make it a strong value pick for most kitchens.
Final Verdict
For households looking to quickly improve the taste and smell of their tap water without a complex install or high cost, the Waterdrop Water Filter for Sink Faucet is an excellent choice. Its NSF/ANSI 42 certification, long filter life, and fast flow rate combine to deliver exactly what most people want: better-tasting water on demand.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and subject to change. The links to Amazon in this article are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you purchase through them at no additional cost to you.

Hi, I’m Candace Wafford, a travel and food blogger based in Lexington, Kentucky. As a corporate traveler, I’ve had the chance to explore a lot of places, but now I’m on a mission to travel full-time. My goal? To figure out how to take my cat along for the adventure! Here at destinationdorworth.com, I share my experiences and tips on outdoor activities, travel, and of course, the best food spots I come across. I hope my blog inspires you to explore more and eat well on your journeys!